If Detected Early, a Small Cavity Might Be Repaired by a Filling

Posted May 8, 2017.

Unfortunately, there are still times when even the most diligent and effective oral hygiene routine isn’t sufficient to prevent a cavity from forming on one of your teeth. With early detection, Dr. Bryan and Dr. Davis might be able to repair a small cavity with a simple filling.

After examining the tooth to assess the severity of the problem, the doctor will numb the tooth by injecting Novocain into the gums. A drill will then be used to remove any decayed tooth enamel to provide a clean, healthy surface for the filling to bond to.

The filling material the doctor uses will depend on both the tooth’s primary function and its appearance in your smile.

A small cavity on a molar can often be repaired with an amalgam filling. This is a blend of special dental-grade metals. It has the durability to handle the daily work of chewing and grinding. For a filling that will be visible in your smile, Dr. Bryan and Dr. Davis might use a composite filling. This is a special dental-grade plastic that can be shaded to perfectly match the surrounding tooth enamel.

If you live in the Medford, Oregon, area and you suspect a cavity has formed on one of your teeth, you should call 541-779-3993 to have it examined and treated at Northwest Dental Associates.